Health Care Program

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Question: Will I be provided with the same level of health care benefit coverage that the RCMP previously provided?

Answer: You will only be provided with health care benefit coverage that is required for the treatment of your pensioned condition(s). For this reason, it is imperative that you apply for disability pension for any injury that can be attributable to your RCMP service. Coverage for treatment and supplementary benefits for your pensioned condition(s) will be provided to you consistent with the provisions of the Veterans Health Care Regulations and VAC's Health Care policies. Treatment Allowances are only available for inpatient treatment for your pensioned condition(s) and only available to discharged RCMP members.

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Question. How do I get VAC health care benefit coverage if I am a serving regular member?

Answer: Serving regular members who are awarded a disability pension from VAC will continue to receive all of their health care benefit coverage from the RCMP Health Service Offices.

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Question: Does VAC recognize the same health care providers as the RCMP?

Answer: Normally, VAC recognizes health care providers who are licensed by the province to practice as health practitioners. Most of these providers are registered as VAC providers with Atlantic Blue Cross Care. VAC can provide you with information on acceptable registered providers.

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Question: Will health care benefit coverage for medications be the same as the coverage previously provided by the RCMP?

Answer: Generally, the cost of most basic pharmaceuticals that are required for the treatment of your pensioned condition(s) will be covered. If you require a special medication for your pensioned condition(s), your pharmacist should contact the Special Authorization Unit at Atlantic Blue Cross Care to confirm if the medication can be approved.

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Question: Are therapeutic services such as psychological counselling, massage therapy and chiropractic services covered?

Answer: Therapeutic services such as psychological counselling, massage therapy and chiropractic services that are required for the treatment of a pensioned condition will be provided consistent with VAC's health policy criteria. You should contact VAC to have this treatment pre-authorized (check the blue pages of your telephone directory). Pensioners should ensure that they become familiar with VAC's provider criteria as well as any limitations on rates or visitations that are applicable to the treatment.

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Question: Will the cost of travel expenses to obtain treatment be covered?

Answer: RCMP pensioners who must travel to obtain treatment for their pensioned condition(s) may be eligible for coverage of travel expenses. You should contact VAC to have this travel pre-authorized (check the blue pages of your telephone directory). Pensioners should ensure that they become familiar with VAC's travel policy criteria.

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Question: Am I eligible to apply for the Veterans Independence Program for assistance with home care services?

Answer: At this time, RCMP pensioners are not eligible for the Veterans Independence Program. Hoever, if a pensioner requires assistance with personal care at home or in a care facility, for their pensioned condition, he or she may be eliglble for a monthly personal care allowance or Attendance Allowance.

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Question: If I have a VAC Health Care Identification Card, can I get health care benefit coverage outside of Canada?

Answer: Yes, health care benefit coverage is available for your pensioned condition(s) outside of Canada. Please contact VAC Foreign Countries Office toll free at 1-888-996-2242.

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Question: Who should I contact for further information on health care benefits?

Answer: Contact VAC with any questions on health care benefit coverage for civilian members and for discharged RCMP regular members (check the blue pages of your telephone directory).